Alienated #6 Review

by Nick Devonald on September 29, 2020

Writer: Simon Spurrier
Artist: Chris Wildgoose
Colours: André May
Letters: Jim Campbell

Alienated has taken readers on one hell of a journey. And here we are, at its epic conclusion. Taking the series as a whole it’s been a really good look at the human condition. It’s explored three teenagers, each hurt and damaged in their own unique, individual ways, in a coming of age story. It’s a powerful story, one which will resonate strongly with readers, each of the three Sam’s being relatable, and more importantly feeling like real, complete people. The damage they’ve each endured has helped define them and make them more than just cut out characters on a page. The characterisation that Simon Spurrier has brought to this comic has been absolutely incredible.

Following on from the cliffhanger ending it was impossible to guess where this story would go next. The only thing that was sure was that all bets were off, anything could happen, and it would be messy. So does Spurrier manage to deliver a conclusion worthy of everything that has come before? In spades. It was obvious after the last issue there wasn’t going to be a happy ever after for this story. But it’s an excellent conclusion, made all the better by the epilogue. There’s a message in here about life, and everything it entails, and youth. To say more would ruin it, but it’s a natural conclusion and it feels earned and justified.

This deep look at youth works so well because it also feels modern. So much of the story, especially Samuel’s story, is dictated by modern societies need to be seen, the way that social media has invaded the world. It feels like a story about the youth of today.

And if all of this is sounding a bit deep and not quite your cup of tea then don’t forget Chip, the impossibly powerful alien who’s abilities appear to only be limited by the imagination of his companions. Throwing him in with three kids who are struggling to find their identity, to grow up, was an absolute stroke of genius and has, throughout the course of the series, allowed Spurrier a really clever way to explore themes and ideas in a different and unique way.

The art from Chris Wildgoose has been outstanding throughout the series, and each issue seems to get better and better, and bring new and exciting things to the table. There is an epic two page spread where Samuel and Samantha debate Chip and what should happen with him which is outstanding. Watching Chip change throughout the series, as the kids influence on him alters him more and more, has been a real journey. Watching him in this issue, the changes he goes through, is an emotional trip. Wildgoose manages to tell so much of the story through his art, the way he portrays the characters emotions, absolutely stunning.

The previously mentioned two page spread works as well as it does because of the incredible colours which André May throws at it. His colours have been strong throughout the series, not only making the comic look incredible but also as a subtle but clever storytelling device. So much is told through the colours, from each kid having their own colour code, as well as moods, and chip, it’s almost unconscious to the reader but helps tell the story. Plus it helps to emphasise Chips alieness as well.

An epic conclusion to an incredible story, this is the kind of comic which will appeal as much to non-comic readers as long time comic fans. It’s also a story which wouldn’t work in another format, this is comic book storytelling at its absolute best. What’s on display here is a writer at the top of his game, an artist whose talents know no bounds, and a colourist who can bring the incredible art to life. If you’ve read any issue of this series you’ll be picking this comic up, an absolute no brainer. If you’re late to the party hound your local comic shop to get the rest of the series. An absolute must read.

Our Score:

10/10

A Look Inside